However, Liverpool’s latest move may end up backfiring as Southampton now insist van Dijk will not be sold and look to be ready to make it a point of principle.

If Southampton can prove that an illegal approach was made then it goes against Premier League rules and could end up in a huge fine and potential ban.

Video Loading

Video Unavailable

Click to playTap to play

The video will start in 8Cancel

Play now

The Premier League rule book clearly states: “A contract player, either by himself or by any person on his behalf, shall not either directly or indirectly make any such approach as is referred to in Rule T.5 without having obtained the prior written consent of his Club.”

The most high profile case in the Premier League era was when Chelsea were hit with a record fine after it was proved they held an illegal meeting with Ashley Cole while he was still an Arsenal player.

Chelsea were given a £300,000 fine and suspended three points deduction.

Southampton confirmed they have asked the Premier League to investigate and Mirror has contacted Liverpool for comment.

A Premier League spokesman said: “Southampton have raised some concerns and we are in turn raising them with Liverpool."